Army officers arrest notorious gunrunner and his 18-year-old wife in Kaduna

Wednesday, October 15, 2025 - Troops of the Nigerian Army have arrested two notorious gunrunners and recovered arms in Lere Local Government Area of Kaduna State. 

Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, Media Information Officer, JTF Operation ENDURING PEACE, who made this known in a statement on Tuesday, October 14, 2025 said the suspects, Mr. Abdullahi Balarabe, 40, and his 18-year-old wife, Shafaatu Abdullahi, were arrested with 1,207 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition.

“In a coordinated operation to enhance security across the Joint Operations Area, troops of Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP) in collaboration with that of Sector 1 Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) tracked and apprehended two notorious gunrunners on Wednesday, October 8, 2025,” the statement read 

"The suspects, Mr. Abdullahi Balarabe (40) and his wife, Shafaatu Abdullahi (18), were intercepted at a snap checkpoint established by the joint troops of JTF OPEP and OPFY at the outskirts of Saminaka in Lere Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

"The operation, prompted by actionable intelligence from an intelligence agency in Plateau State, led to the recovery of 1,207 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special) ammunition. The ammunition was believed to be bound for armed groups operating in the North West.

“Following their arrest, the suspects and the recovered ammunition are in own custody for further investigation and follow-up action to dismantle the wider gunrunning network.”

Major General Folusho Oyinlola, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander JTF OPEP, commended the troops for their bravery, vigilance, and proactive efforts.

"This successful operation underscores the critical importance of inter-agency cooperation in combating criminal activities, Major General Oyinlola stated.

He assured the residents of Plateau State that JTF OPEP remains resolute in its commitment to restoring lasting peace and security. 

“We will not relent in our efforts to eradicate the activities of terrorists and criminal elements, thereby fostering a secure environment where peace and prosperity can thrive,” he added.